Volkswagen could axe the Beetle and Scirocco

VW's cost-cutting measures could spell the end for two models

Two niche Volkswagen models – the iconic Beetle and the Scirocco – could have their days numbered.

Speaking with Autocar, VW board member Arno Antilitz says the Beetle and Scirocco might represent “an emotional and appealing class of vehicles,” but that might not be enough to convince VW’s product planning division to bring the two “from one generation to the next.”

Initially, the current Beetle and Scirocco were expected to eventually move to VW’s new MQB platform. But cost-cutting measures following the company’s diesel emissions scandal could dictate otherwise.

Rumours of the Beetle being on the chopping block are nothing new, but this time around, word on the street is that the Beetle convertible will stick around as it’s still relatively popular in Europe. On the other hand, the Scirocco is a favourite among many enthusiasts, but it typically shares much of its genes with the Golf GTI and R.